Creamy chicken casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that can provide several health and nutritional benefits when prepared with wholesome ingredients. Here are some of the potential benefits:
1. Protein: Chicken is a rich source of high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and maintaining a healthy immune system.
2. Healthy Fats: Including moderate amounts of healthy fats in your casserole can provide satiety and promote nutrient absorption. Ingredients like olive oil or avocado oil can add healthy monounsaturated fats to the dish.
3. Vegetables: By adding vegetables to your creamy chicken casserole, you can boost the nutritional value significantly. Vegetables like carrots, peas, broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers provide vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, which promote overall health and digestion.
4. Calcium and Vitamin D: If your casserole recipe includes dairy products such as cheese or milk, it can contribute to your calcium and vitamin D intake. Calcium is important for strong bones and teeth, while vitamin D aids in calcium absorption and supports immune function.
5. Vitamin B12: Chicken is a good source of vitamin B12, a nutrient necessary for proper red blood cell formation, neurological function, and DNA synthesis.
6. Customizable Ingredients: Depending on your specific dietary needs, you can customize the recipe to suit your preferences. For example, you can choose low-fat or plant-based dairy alternatives, whole wheat pasta, or gluten-free options.
To maximize the health benefits of your creamy chicken casserole, consider using lean chicken cuts, reducing the amount of added fats or sodium, and balancing the portion sizes to maintain a well-rounded meal.
CREAMY CHICKEN CASSEROLE RECIPE
Ingredients
▢1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts cooked and shredded or diced
▢10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup 1 can
▢10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup 1 can
▢8 oz shredded cheddar cheese
▢1 tsp garlic powder
▢1/2 tsp pepper
▢1 TBSP olive oil
▢1 1/2 cups Panko bread crumbs or regular bread crumbs
▢1 lb elbow macaroni cooked per package directions
▢1/2 cup milk optional
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Instructions
Dice boneless, skinless chicken into 1 inch pieces and cook in a saute pan with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, sprinkle with garlic powder and pepper. Cook for about 10 minutes over medium heat or until no longer pink.
OR place chicken breasts in a 9×13 baking dish and sprinkle with garlic powder and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil. Cover with foil and bake at 350 F for 30-40 minutes or until no longer pink.
Cook the elbow noodles per package directions.
When the chicken is done, shred it with a fork or put it in a food processor to shred quickly. Save the juices to use as well
In a medium bowl., mix the cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups, cheese, cooked chicken and the broth from cooked chicken (for extra flavors)
Place the cooked elbow macaroni into a 9×13 baking dish.
Add in the cooked, shredded chicken.
Pour the cheese/soup mixture over top and mix together well.
Sprinkle the top with panko or bread crumbs and bake at 350 degrees F for 25-30 minutes.
To brown the panko topping, turn the oven on broil on low for about 3 -5 minutes to get it extra crispy. Just watch very closely. It can burn quickly. I usually leave the oven door cracked and watch it the entire time.
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Notes
Add 1/2 cup of milk for a little extra creaminess.
Make batches of crock pot shredded chicken and freeze it in separate bags to use in recipes like this casserole.
Make your own homemade cream of mushroom soup (and cream of chicken soup if you leave out the mushrooms). I had no idea it was so easy!
You can also substitute crushed Ritz crackers for the crunchy topping too!
Certainly! Here are some tips for making a delicious and creamy chicken casserole:
1. Choose high-quality chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for your casserole. Trim any excess fat before cooking to keep it lean.
2. Add vegetables: Incorporate a variety of vegetables to add flavor, texture, and nutrients. Some popular choices include carrots, peas, mushrooms, bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach. Sauté or blanch them before adding them to the casserole for better texture.
3. Use flavorful seasonings: Enhance the taste of your casserole by using a combination of herbs and spices. Common options include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning. Adjust the amounts according to your taste preferences.
4. Use a creamy sauce: To achieve a creamy texture, use a sauce made with ingredients like milk, cream, or Greek yogurt. You can also combine chicken broth with a roux (a mixture of flour and butter) to create a thick and creamy base. Experiment with different herbs and spices to add depth of flavor.
5. Consider cheese: If you enjoy cheese, consider adding a layer of grated cheese on top of the casserole. Cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan are popular choices. This adds a delicious cheesy crust to your casserole.
6. Crunchy toppings: For added texture and flavor, consider topping your casserole with breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or toasted almonds. This will create a satisfying contrast to the creamy filling.
7. Cook and rest: Bake your casserole in a preheated oven according to the recipe instructions. Once cooked, allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to portion.
8. Customize to dietary needs: Feel free to adapt the recipe to your dietary preferences or restrictions. If you prefer a lighter version, use low-fat dairy products or dairy alternatives. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if desired.
Remember, cooking times and temperatures may vary depending on your recipe, so always follow the specific instructions provided. Enjoy your creamy chicken casserole!